While it’s difficult to pin down the exact percentage of adults who use diapers or other products to manage incontinence, the adult diaper industry was worth $15.4 billion in 2020. That number is only expected to grow. Many people are using adult diapers.
It’s no wonder why; adult diapers can help their users regain confidence and independence. But, unfortunately, there are downsides to using them. Diaper rash is chief among those drawbacks, but there are ways to avoid the discomfort. Here are three easy steps for preventing diaper rash from helping you get started.
How To Recognize Diaper Rash
Before you can take steps to prevent adult diaper rash, you need to recognize the signs that it’s occurring. When you know what to look for, you can judge whether your efforts are successful or not. Here’s what to look for:
- A pink or reddish rash
- Small bumps, which may contain fluid
- An itchy or burning feeling
- Pain or tenderness
If you or an adult you’re caring for has any of the above on the area typically covered by the diaper, brief, or pad, then diaper rash is the likely cause.
Steps To Prevent Diaper Rash
The most convenient way to treat diaper rash is to stop it from happening in the first place. Luckily, you can make a few fast changes to your routine to decrease the likelihood of a diaper rash developing. Three of the easiest ways to prevent diaper rash are changing the diaper as soon as it’s soiled, washing the area thoroughly, and avoiding scented products.
Change Often
Image by ganzarolisara from Pixabay.
Many people who suffer from diaper rash aren’t changing the incontinence product they’re using often enough, when your skin is exposed to moisture from a soiled diaper and chaffed as you move around, the chances of a rash developing increase.
It’s best to change out an incontinence product when it’s even slightly moist, but that’s not always feasible. Caretakers with multiple charges or another job, people with mobility issues, people struggling with dementia or other memory problems, or anyone who’s simply busy may have a hard time changing a diaper frequently.
That’s alright. Adult diapers are supposed to make your life more convenient, and having to rush to the bathroom to change anyway negates that. So instead, replace the incontinence product as often as is realistic for you and invest in a moisture barrier cream. Apply the cream right before changing into a clean diaper.
Wash Frequently and Well
Image by tookapic from Pixabay.
You’re likely already aware, but it’s worth restating. Hygiene is critical for adult diaper users. You should be washing entirely once a day, typically when you shower or bathe. In addition, using a washcloth to carefully clean the area the diaper covers every time you change is also a good habit to have.
Avoid the temptation to scrub or use harsh products when you wash, as they may irritate your skin and contribute to a diaper rash. Using hypoallergenic soaps or those specifically formulated for sensitive skin can help avoid irritation.
Washing is only the first part of the process, however. Drying the area is equally essential. If you have the time, try to air dry. If you don’t—and most people don’t—pat yourself dry with a towel. Don’t rub, even if it seems like it would be faster or more convenient. The less stress you put your skin through, the better.
Always make sure your skin is 100 percent dry before putting on a new diaper. If you don’t, your hard work is going to waste. Wet skin leads to irritation, whether it’s damp due to incontinence or a recent shower. Once again, You can’t underestimate the value of a moisture barrier cream.
Avoid Scented Products
Sometimes, you might be doing everything you can and still have a diaper rash. If that’s the case, allergies may be to blame. Many people have a sensitivity or are allergic to the fragrances used in adult diapers or other incontinence products.
It can be hard to identify the precise cause of irritation, so it’s worth switching to a fragrance-free product even if you’re not sure you have a sensitivity.
If you’re self-conscious or worried about odors, it’s tempting to purchase products that include fragrances. Still, when you’re shopping for adult diapers, try to avoid the scented ones. Instead, look for products with packaging that says something along the lines of “odor reduction” and “fragrance-free.” That way, you can be confident about your daily activities without increasing your chances of developing a diaper rash.
How To Treat Diaper Rash if Prevention Fails
If you or someone you’re caring for does develop a diaper rash, don’t worry. There are lots of treatments available, and most rashes clear up within three days. In general, however, one or more of the following should help relieve symptoms:
- Rash cream
- Changing diapers more frequently
- Washing the area more thoroughly
- Switching to a non-scented product
If a rash is severe, lasts more than three days, or skin lesions present that you suspect may be infected, talk to a doctor right away.
Conclusion
An occasional bout of diaper rash may be unavoidable despite your best efforts if you have sensitive skin. Still, you can decrease the duration and severity of the inflammation and your chances of developing one in the first place by taking the proper steps.
